Scottie Scheffler drained a 65-foot [1] chip shot on the 14th hole during the third round of the 2026 U.S. Open on June 20 [2].
The shot represents a pivotal moment in the tournament, sparking a surge in Scheffler's performance and moving him back into contention for the title.
Playing at the Shinnecock Hills Golf Club on Long Island, New York [3], Scheffler faced a challenging approach on the 14th hole. The resulting birdie was the product of a chip that traveled 65 feet [1] to find the cup. The shot occurred during the third round of the competition [2], which is often referred to as the moving day of major championships.
Observers said the chip-in triggered a visible emotional response from Scheffler [4]. This momentum shifted his trajectory for the remainder of the day, allowing him to climb the leaderboard as he entered the final round of the event [4].
Shinnecock Hills is known for its rigorous conditions, making long-distance recoveries rare. The precision required for such a shot highlights the technical skill Scheffler maintained throughout the third round [3]. The event continued following the dramatic play on the 14th, with Scheffler utilizing the psychological boost to challenge the leaders [4].
“Scottie Scheffler drained a 65-foot chip shot on the 14th hole”
A chip-in of this distance is a statistically rare event in professional golf, particularly during a U.S. Open where course setups are designed to penalize imprecise shots. By converting a 65-foot chip into a birdie, Scheffler not only gained a stroke but also shifted the psychological momentum of the tournament, placing significant pressure on the leaders heading into the final round.
